In statistics, it can be difficult to provide a specific answer to a question because of the variation present in the data. Statistical analysis allows us to organize data in different ways so that we can draw out potential patterns in the variation and give better answers to the questions posed.

The following Interactive Activity allows you to review and compare the various representations of data we have explored, both graphical and tabular.

It's important to note that several kinds of answers can be given when there is variation in your data. Some answers may be stated as intervals, and some answers, like the mode and the median, use a specific value to represent all the different data values.

Video SegmentIn this video segment, meteorologist Kim Martucci demonstrates how she solves the statistical problem of predicting the weather. Watch this segment after you have completed Session 2.

What are Kim Martucci's strategies for predicting the weather? How are they similar to your strategies for counting raisins? How are they different?

If you're using a VCR, you can find the first part of this segment on the session video approximately 23 minutes and 3 seconds after the Annenberg Media logo. The second part of this segment begins approximately 24 mintues and 48 seconds after the Annenberg Media logo.